2,000 adults in Scouting gathered under the famous oak tree for the 84th Gilwell Reunion, which took place at the weekend. A mix of volunteers, young and old, filled the campsite and got to take part in a range of activities, workshops and entertainments.
The event, which aims to combine a fun weekend with informative bases and expert advice, saw some firsts: the new uniform activity trousers were launched by Scout Shops, an early morning exercise class and the chance to try the novel sport of Rock-It Ball on the training ground. Hot air balloon rides were popular on Saturday morning, and the old favourites of the campfire, quiz and cinema kept campers entertained into the small hours.
Partners on hand
In recent years, Reunion has become a place where numerous organisations that work with Scouting come to share their ideas for partnerships. This year was no different, with charities as diverse as Stonewall, ShelterBox, the War Graves Commission and Dubble Fairtrade chocolate exhibiting.
A special atmosphere
Taking a rest from the hive of activity on Saturday afternoon, Meryl from Tonbridge summed up what the weekend meant to her: ‘It’s always inspiring and reinvigorates me in time for the first Beaver meeting in September. I’ve been coming for 12 years and take something different away each time. I particularly enjoyed learning how to do encaustic art in the Creative Tent.’ Dougie, who made the trip from Fife, commented: 'There's a special atmosphere at Gilwell that makes Reunion a weekend not to be missed. People are friendly, the staff are great, and there's plenty to do. While the world becomes more cynical, Scouts are showing that we can get along and inspire each other.'
First among equals
The weekend ended with the annual meeting of the 1st Gilwell Park Scout Group, a Group consisting of every worldwide adult member who completes their Wood Badge training. UK Chief Commissioner gave a round-up of the many positive outcomes of the last 12 months in Scouting. As hundreds of campers dispersed to every corner of the country (and beyond) the clear up operation was well underway, ready to do it all again next year.
Reunion 2010 facts
106 activity bases on offer in one weekend
More than 2,000 attendees from over 15 countries
The Reunion quiz was won by ‘Team 24’ with 42 points.
Very good Reunion this year - activities and bases excellent - can we have more of the same next time please, the Campfire one of the best we've had for a while, the Scout's Own inspiring. The only downside was the evening entertainment. I felt that was a real disappointment - being probably classed as an "old fogey" now, I don't want wall to wall disco noise and equally don't want to watch football. I felt sorry for those who had made an effort on Saturday night with their evening gowns & tuxedos as they wandered about on grass and gravel looking for a ball. Apart from that Reunion does still recharge the batteries. Thank you.
By Sue Peart on 07/09/2010 16:45
There had been a long gap of 12 years since myself and hubby, Geoff had attended the reunion last, we were glad of the opportunity to come and renew old aquaintances, have ago at the bases (including myself equalling the world record on eating m and m's with chop sticks, and winning a scouting book, but also watching the enthusiasm on my grandson's face as he climbed the swinging logs in the lid on the Sunday morning and reaching the top, (not bad for a 7yr old!) I was also glad I had my mobility scooter with me, and the fact that I was able to charge it up with no problem. Thanks to all the staff for making reunion this year, one to remember
By Lesley Currant on 09/09/2010 16:51
My Group has been attending the Reunion for around 6 years, we find it provides useful resources, valuable support from central staff an also encourages team-building within our Group.
Running the site activities on Sunday this year was much appreciated, as I find it a struggle to fit everything in! Craft tent was wonderful this year, our only major frustration was the Cafe outside the Lid was appallingly slow, taking 30 minutes to buy a cup of coffee! Apart from that, we made some new friends, and renewed our enthusiasm for Scouting. Well done!
By Janet Jones on 12/09/2010 14:33
Thank you to all those involved in the organisation of this year's event. It was terrific. Just one teeny weeny point.... Could not the welcoming staff at the gate give out the contact forms that were required to be shown inside parked cars or perhaps they could be available online for completion before arriving at Gilwell? Like many other attendees, I found mine inside the welcome pack once up on Essex Chase. It required a return visit to the car park to put the completed form into my car. This is such a minor point during what was such a great weekend but just a little irritating.
By Templer Family on 18/09/2010 08:49
We have been coming to the reunion for the last few years and this year's was just as enjoyable. There wasn't as many stall holders as normal and they all seemed to be stuffed into the lid for just the one day. This seems a shame as we enjoy a bit of retail therapy for Scouting items - Christmas craft for the section etc. Was it me but Sunday seemed a bit flat whilst Saturday was all buzz? Great campfire! We agree that car park permit online would be helpful. Lunch time sandwich selection was extemely limited and lid cafe was VERY slow. Somewhere to pick up the section sponsored badge leaflets would have been helpful. Overall a good event and our thanks to the organisers.
By Eddie Hulme on 18/09/2010 11:23
First timer. Had a fabulous time and met loads of people and did what I thought was loads of things but now realize I need to go next year to do stuff I didnt have time to do. Laughed on friday arriving early with people on the camp fields reserving huge spaces for friends arriving later - reminded me of germans, sunbeds and towels. We camped squeezed up like Glastonbury and it was great.
